US, Sri Lanka discuss stronger trade and maritime security ties

By Sisira Wijesinghe from Washington DC

The United States and Sri Lanka have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral commercial relations and maritime security cooperation during a meeting between senior officials in Washington.

The discussion took place during a courtesy call by Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the United States, Mahinda Samarasinghe, on US Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Allison M. Hooker, during which the ambassador presented the book Enduring Friendship, highlighting key milestones in 250 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

During the meeting, Hooker said the United States remains committed to enhancing trade relations and maritime security cooperation with Sri Lanka. She also expressed appreciation for Ambassador Samarasinghe's diplomatic leadership during a significant period in US-Sri Lanka relations.

The presentation of Enduring Friendship was attended by Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapoor, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Nicole Chulick, Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Bethany Morrison, and several other officials.